Nassau, Bahamas - The following is a statement by the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Perry G. Christie on the passing of Former Commissioner of Police Bernard K. Bonamy Sr. LVO, QPM:
I was very saddened to learn of the passing earlier today of former Commissioner of Police, Bernard Bonamy, better known as B.K.Bonamy.
A proud native of Cat Island and one of that island's most illustrious sons, Mr. Bonamy gave distinguished service to our nation over many years, initially in law enforcement,later as Secretary to the Gaming Board, and in more recent times as a practicing member of the Bahamas Bar.
It was, however, as Commissioner of Police that Mr. Bonamy made his most important contribution to national development. He ascended to that high office during the extremely difficult years when narcotics trafficking and associated criminality were at their height. However, he brought to the fight against these menaces an uncompromising integrity and incorruptibility which set the standard for law enforcement officers of the time. He was a no-nonsense police chief who insisted on discipline,professionalism, and service with honour at all levels of the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Mr. Bonamy also claimed the twin distinctions of being one of the youngest Police Commissioners in our nation's history and the very first Bahamian Commissioner trained in the academic discipline of the law, having earned an LL.B university degree while serving on the Police Force.
Mr. Bonamy will also be remembered for being a sound and innovative thinker and law enforcement strategist. Along with the Minister of National Security at the time, the late Hon. Paul L. Adderley, Mr. Bonamy was particularly instrumental in expanding and consolidating the international working partnerships between Bahamian law enforcement and their foreign counterparts, notably with the U.S. and British law enforcement authorities, and on the global level, with INTERPOL.
Mr. Bonamy always conducted himself with great dignity. He was a model policeman whose intelligence, leadership skills, and outstanding sense of honour earned him the admiration not only of his subordinates on the Force but the general public as well.Mr. Bonamy was a good and faithful servant of the Bahamian people whose many fine contributions and outstanding example have secured him a lasting place of respect among the nation-builders of the modern Bahamas.
On behalf of the Government and people of The Bahamas, and on my own behalf, I extend condolences to Mr. Bonamy's widow, children and family. May he rest in peace.
